Orto self-watering planter boxes include an internal wicking bed that feeds your plants water from below. You don't need to be an experienced gardener or have perfect soil conditions to grow your own fresh healthy herbs and vegies. Orto is a closed system that can be placed on any surface with a enough sunlight. You simply fill the water reservoir as required and harvest food as it grows. The water reservoir and overflow system mean you cannot over water your plants by mistake, and they will grow happily when you are away on holiday.

The internal water reservoir is a food-grade plastic liner fitted with an outlet at the base that controls water levels and allows for easy draining when required. Wicking beds are increasingly popular for urban veggie gardens because they save 50% water usage and optimise growth by providing exactly the right amount of soil moisture in the root zone. Orto wicking beds include a reservoir level checker and overflow pipe so that you cannot overwater your plants. You can see the wicking process explained more thoroughly in our FAQ section.

Orto planter boxes are hand made in Footscray at our co-operative workshop. You are welcome to come and see us at work or alternatively, check out the functioning Orto boxes in some of Melbourne's most delicious fresh food conscious cafes.

Our Cypress timber is from sustainable Australian sources certified under Sustainable Forest Management AS47082013. Cypress has a class 1 durability rating due to its natural oils and will last outdoors above ground for forty years. No chemicals or preservatives are used in the treatment of our timber, and we further extend longevity with a plastic liner preventing soil or water from contact with the timber.

The "Soil and Plants Package" is an option to help get you started. We will call you to check which plants you prefer and always try to meet your requirements given seasonal availability. Note that we can ship anywhere in Australia but can only do the soil and plant set up in Melbourne.

Choose between timber feet or castors for no charge. Castors are suitable for hard flat surfaces ie. timber decks, pavers or cement. On softer surfaces like grass or gravel driveways, timber feet are recommended. Please choose which suits you best.

Delivery charge is from $59 per order based on your distance from Melbourne CBD. Pick up for free is also available from Footscray.

Delivery time is 1-4 weeks.

Supplied or shipped fully assembled and ready for you to add your soil and plants.

Orto Testimonials

Bob W. 05/05/18

Orto is great, I got two of the Orto self watering planter boxes one with a built in mesh to grow a climber on. Couldn’t be any happier with them. It is wonderful to know that the plants just take the water they need and that I can go away for a month and they will still have water. Nick, who designed and built them, is a great guy and takes pride in his work. Thoroughly recommend them.

Bob W. 05/05/18

Amazing planter box. Great communication, service and delivery. Very speedy too. What a system, takes all the guess work out of watering and 2 weeks later everything is growing really well.

Jocelyn D. 05/06/18

Robin 04/19/18

A handsome addition to our CBD balcony, the Orto supplies us with all the snip-and-go herbs we most use. The wicking system keeps everything in prime condition and allows us to be away from home knowing our little garden is still being looked after. Wish I had bought one years earlier!